Quantum Identifies Mica as Key Carrier of Critical Elements at NMX East, Québec
The samples were sent to AGAT Laboratories in Calgary for assay and X-ray diffraction analysis. X-ray diffraction is a technique which uses x-rays to identify minerals based on their internal unique crystal structure. Table 1 shows the relative percentage of mica contained in each of the three samples and the associated element content in grams per tonne.
| Mica content | Gallium (Ga) | Lithium (Li) | Niobium (Nb) | Rubidium (Rb) | Tin (Sn) | Tantalum (Ta) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sample 1 | 21.2 wt % | 93.7 | 391 | 180 | 1390 | 158 | 22.6 |
| Sample 2 | 72.7 wt % | 186 | 959 | 320 | 3220 | 347 | 71.5 |
| Sample 3 | 0.7 wt % | 21.3 | 23 | 10 | 1180 | 4 | 1.4 |
Table 1. Mica content (%) and corresponding assay values (grams per tonne) for selected mica-rich pegmatite samples
Samples with the highest mica content returned the highest values of multiple elements, suggesting that mica is the main host of mineralization. For example, one mica-rich sample containing 72.7 wt % mica (Sample 2) recorded values of 186 ppm Ga, 959 ppm Li, 320 ppm Nb 3,220 ppm Rb, 347 ppm Sn, and 71.5 ppm Ta. By contrast, a sample with only 0.7 wt % mica (Sample 3) contained much lower values: 21.3 ppm Ga, 23 ppm Li, 10 ppm Nb, 1,180 ppm Rb, 4 ppm Sn, and 1.4 ppm Ta.
This new analysis of these mica samples from the pegmatite drill core from the NMX property highlights a strong link between mica content and enrichment of several critical metals, including gallium (Ga), lithium (Li), niobium (Nb), rubidium (Rb), tin (Sn), and tantalum (Ta). These results reinforce the theory of mica acting as a host for mineralization in the NMX pegmatite systems.
Additional detailed mineralogy is currently being done at SGS Lakefield which will lead into the hydrometallurgy studies where the metals are extracted from the minerals.
Assay QA/QC
The samples were hand selected from ¼ cut drill core. The geologist identified the minerals macroscopically and pulled a sample of a few hundred grams. Because of this methodology, the results do not represent the entire interval of 107 metres sampled for metallurgical testing, nor do the represent the ore body itself. The samples were sent to AGAT Laboratories in Calgary. AGAT is certified and licensed for a number of tests and is ISO 9001:2015 and also Standards Council of Canada accredited for mineral analysis, chemical/physical testing. The samples underwent sodium peroxide fusion with ICP-OES and ICP-MS finish.
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Significant Critical Metals Discoveries
A detailed reassessment of drill core assays from both Québec projects has confirmed elevated and consistent intervals of gallium, rubidium, cesium, niobium, and tantalum. These results support the identification of two distinct gallium-rubidium-cesium mineralized systems within the Company’s portfolio.
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Early Metallurgical Focus to Accelerate Recovery Assessment
Quantum is prioritizing mineralogical and metallurgical studies ahead of a formal resource estimate to evaluate the economic viability of metal recovery. This proactive approach aims to fast-track development and position the Company at the forefront of critical metal supply efforts in North America.
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Innovative Gallium Recovery from Mica
Initial findings suggest gallium may be hosted in mica, a non-traditional source. While gallium is typically extracted as a byproduct of bauxite or zinc processing, historical studies show it can be recovered from mica using processing methods like floatation, followed by hydrometallurgy acid leaching techniques. The Company is engaging multiple laboratories to optimize this process.
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Strengthening Domestic Supply Chains
In light of China’s December 2024 ban on gallium exports, Quantum’s discoveries represent a timely and strategic opportunity to support North American critical mineral independence. These metals are essential for high-tech applications, including semiconductors, telecommunications, defense, and renewable energy.
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Marcy Kiesman, CEO
Telephone: 604.428.2900 or 604.339.2243
Email: info@quantumcriticalmetals.com
Website: www.quantumcriticalmetals.com
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